What if you could cook a delicious weeknight dinner in just one pan? This quick and easy recipe combines garlic parmesan shrimp with roasted veggies for a homemade meal that’s perfect for a busy family favorite night, try sautéing shrimp and veggies in garlic butter for a tender and flavorful result, save this idea

one pan 20 – minute garlic parmesan shrimp and veggies with text overlay

Introduction

This delectable one pan 20-minute garlic parmesan shrimp and veggies recipe is a masterclass in simplicity, flavor, and creativity. Using everyday ingredients, it’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The combination of succulent shrimp, crunchy veggies, and the rich flavors of garlic and parmesan cheese will leave you and your family craving for more. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make and requires minimal cleanup, making it a staple for busy home cooks.

Why This Works

Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: This recipe strikes a perfect balance between flavors and uses ingredients that are easily available in most supermarkets.
Ease of preparation: The one-pan method simplifies the cooking process, reducing preparation and cooking time significantly.
Impressive results with minimal effort: Despite its simplicity, the dish presents beautifully and tastes like a gourmet meal, making it perfect for entertaining guests.

Key Ingredients

The main ingredients include large shrimp, garlic, parmesan cheese, mixed veggies (such as bell peppers, zucchini, and onions), olive oil, salt, pepper, and your choice of pasta or rice for serving. For practical substitutions, you can use different types of veggies based on what’s in season or your personal preferences. Additionally, if you’re looking for a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can be a great substitute for parmesan cheese, offering a similar nutty flavor.

Instructions

Step 1: Begin by prepping your ingredients. Peel and de-vein the shrimp, chop the veggies into bite-sized pieces, mince the garlic, and grate the parmesan cheese.
Step 2: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil, then sauté the garlic until fragrant. Next, add the mixed veggies and cook until they start to soften.
Step 3: Add the shrimp to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, and any additional herbs you like. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes per side, until they turn pink and are fully cooked. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Step 4: Reduce heat to medium and add more garlic if desired, then sprinkle the parmesan cheese over the veggies. Stir until the cheese is melted and well combined. Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss everything together to ensure the shrimp is coated with the garlic parmesan sauce. Serve hot over pasta or rice.

Handy Tips

Always pat dry the shrimp with a paper towel before cooking to help them sear better in the pan.
Don’t overcook the veggies; they should retain some crunch to provide texture contrast to the dish.
For an extra burst of flavor, squeeze some fresh lemon juice over the top of the dish before serving.

Heat Control

Heat control is crucial in this recipe. Start with medium-high heat to get a good sear on the shrimp and to quickly cook the veggies. Then, reduce the heat to medium to prevent burning the garlic and to melt the cheese evenly. The ideal internal temperature for cooked shrimp is 120°F – 145°F (49°C – 63°C). They should turn pink and be firm to the touch.

Crunch Factor

Achieving the right crunch factor in this dish comes down to not overcooking the veggies. Bell peppers, zucchini, and onions should still have a bit of crunch when bitten into. If you prefer your veggies softer, you can cook them for an additional 2-3 minutes. The contrast between the tender shrimp, crunchy veggies, and the creamy parmesan sauce is what makes this dish so appealing.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

Use high-quality ingredients: Fresh veggies and good parmesan cheese can elevate the flavor of the dish significantly.
Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook the shrimp and veggies in batches if necessary, to ensure everything cooks evenly and quickly.
Clean as you go: This will make the cleanup process much easier and less overwhelming after the meal is prepared.

Storage Tips

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.
For longer storage, consider freezing the cooked shrimp and veggies in separate containers. They can be reheated and combined when needed.
When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to prevent the dish from drying out.

Gift Packaging Ideas

While this dish is best consumed fresh, if you’re looking to gift a similar product, consider packaging a mix of dried herbs, parmesan cheese, and garlic in a decorative jar with a recipe card for the one pan garlic parmesan shrimp and veggies. This can be a thoughtful and unique gift for foodies and home cooks.

Flavor Variations

Different spices: Add some red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or use smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
Creative toppings: Top with chopped fresh parsley, basil, or dill for added freshness.
Ingredient swaps: Use chicken or tofu for a vegetarian option, and swap out veggies based on seasonal availability.

Troubleshooting

Texture problems: If the shrimp becomes tough, it may be overcooked. Veggies that are too soft can be due to overcooking as well.
Ingredient replacements: If you can’t find parmesan, other hard cheeses like pecorino or romano can work as substitutes.
Over/undercooking signs: Shrimp will turn pink and firm up when cooked. Veggies should still have some crunch but be tender enough to bite through easily.

FAQs

Can I freeze it? Yes, cooked shrimp and veggies can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat when needed.
Is it gluten-free? Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten intolerance.
Can I double the recipe? Absolutely, just ensure you have a large enough skillet to accommodate all the ingredients in a single layer.

Conclusion

This one pan 20-minute garlic parmesan shrimp and veggies recipe is a game-changer for home cooks looking for a quick, delicious, and impressive meal. With its simplicity, flexibility, and flavor, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different veggies and seasonings to make the dish your own, and enjoy the process of creating a beautiful and tasty meal for yourself and your loved ones.

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